Young Yorkshire Talents Triumph in National Game Design Contest

In a remarkable display of creativity and innovation, two young game designers from Yorkshire have emerged victorious at a prestigious national competition. The BAFTA Young Game Designer Competition celebrated the talents of individuals aged between 10 and 18 who crafted either games or conceptual designs. Among the finalists, two teenagers stood out for their unique approaches to video game creation.

Thiago, a 13-year-old from Sheffield, captured the imagination of judges with his award-winning game concept in the 10-14 age group. His creation, titled Sir Floofington, introduces players to an unconventional knight wielding a broomstick on a quest for the mythical Golden Floof. Thiago credits his inspiration to both classic dungeon crawlers and his father's career as a game producer. He expressed excitement about translating his ideas into code so others can experience his vision. Meanwhile, Tanisi, a 14-year-old from Leeds, dazzled the panel with her psychological horror game proposal, The Undead. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, her game invites players to navigate through perilous landscapes while searching for lost family members. Tanisi revealed her passion for storytelling, emphasizing her gratitude that her concept resonated with others.

The potential of these young creators has left industry professionals awestruck. Host Inel Tomlinson praised the authenticity and depth of ideas presented by participants, expressing eagerness to witness future projects from these innovators. Judge Dan Ayoub echoed this sentiment, noting how the contestants' talent and ambition invigorated his optimism for the gaming industry. Such achievements underscore the importance of nurturing youthful creativity and highlight the boundless opportunities within the digital arts. As these budding talents continue to evolve, they inspire countless peers to explore their own imaginative worlds through technology and design.